Crack open a piece of igneous rock and discover the characteristics that make each piece unique. The crystal structure within classifies each type according to its cooling time and mineral ingredients. Learn More

What is a fossil? Fossils are the remains or traces of things that were once alive. They can be bones, teeth, tracks, or any sign of past plant or animal life, thousands to billions of years old. Fossils found worldwide help us understand the history of life on Earth. Research the history of life through the mini fossil record contained in this box!
Spanish language activity book and object cards are available upon request. Learn More

Take a closer look at the intricate workings of an oil well, bearing down deep through thousands of feet of stratified rock. You will get a glimpse of the machinery as well as the tremendous power it takes to extract oil from its sandy home. Learn More

Explore the most versatile of all metals, aluminum can come in a variety of shapes and sizes, and can also be extruded, forged, and cast in molds. Aluminum is also often alloyed with other metals. Learn More

Take a closer look at the graphite in your pencil and you'll be surprised to learn that it might represent the carbon from life forms of past geological ages. Though graphite is only one form of carbon, it is found in two places: crystalline clumps and softer rocks. Learn More

Learn about the sweep of hominid evolution! Using skull casts of three distinct hominid species, explore how scientists use various measurements to distinguish between the different species. Create a hominid family tree and hold replicas of some of the first tools used by hominids during the early Stone Age.
Spanish language activity book and object cards are available upon request. Learn More

Earth's surface is a complex, dynamic system fractured into zones called tectonic plates. These plates are in constant motion, causing earthquakes when they move past one another. Use this box to understand the theory of continental drift, the evidence supporting the theory, and how this theory provides the context for earthquakes. Use a seismograph to learn how scientists measure earthquakes and simulate an earthquake to find out how man-made structures might react to ground movements. Learn More

Unearth the life forms that lived in Chicago millions of years ago. Limestone forms the underlayer of the earth around Chicago, and contains an amazing array of fossils like corals, crinoids and trilobites, among others. Learn More